Sports talk host Chris Russo has voiced his opinions on the nepotism in the NBA, particularly regarding Bronny James’ spot on the Los Angeles Lakers next to his father, LeBron James. He has openly discussed LeBron’s involvement in Bronny’s roster inclusion. Ironically, Russo has been similarly active in promoting his son Colin Russo’s media career.
Colin Russo, co-host of the Russo and Rizzo Show on ESPN West Palm Beach alongside Michael Rizzo, son of Cleveland sports radio legend Tony Rizzo, recently broadcasted from Clover Park, the New York Mets’ spring training site. In preparation for their show, Russo sought an interview with a Mets player but was met with a request denial from the organization, citing full schedules for the day.
Colin Russo has kept this incident private, yet Chris Russo, known for his candidness, did not hesitate to address the issue on his SiriusXM show Mad Dog Unleashed. He expressed his frustration on his son’s behalf, stating, “Oh go to hell, their schedules are full for the rest of the day… You are talking to me, who has been at spring training sites for 50 years.” He continued, emphasizing that they weren’t seeking star players like Pete Alonso or Francisco Lindor, saying, “Nobody is asking for Sean Manaea or Jeff McNeil, who is hurt…” Russo highlighted the inconsistency of the Mets’ media relations compared to other teams, noting the Nationals’ willingness to provide access to their president.
Russo vented about how the Mets’ organization operates, lamenting, “The Mets are the Mets. They are not the Boston Celtics or the Green Bay Packers. They are the freaking Mets.” He passionately questioned why lesser-known pitchers like José Butto or Tylor Megill couldn’t spare five minutes for an interview. His tirade lasted 18 minutes and spanned multiple segments, showcasing his profound disappointment with the Mets.
Mad Dog Russo went OFF on the Mets for over 18 minutes (!!!) for refusing to provide a single player or team representative for his son Colin to interview.
Colin Russo is a sports-talk host for ESPN West Palm. They were broadcasting live from the Mets’ spring training facility. pic.twitter.com/WSz1n9pRAt
— Funhouse (@BackAftaThis) March 18, 2025
While Russo makes a valid point about the Mets potentially being more accommodating in promoting the sport, it’s amusing to see him engage so fervently in his son’s career while simultaneously criticizing LeBron’s involvement in Bronny’s journey. Perhaps Russo now understands LeBron’s defensiveness against negative critiques towards Bronny from Stephen A. Smith, a colleague from Russo’s First Take.
Regardless, it seems unlikely that Russo will be cheering for the Mets this upcoming season, unlike his enthusiastic support during their recent postseason run.
